Beowulf, Pagan or Christian? No one knows for sure. Beowulf was written sometime around the 8th century. During this time, society was in the process of converting from Paganism to Christianity. As a result, Beowulf holds characteristics from both Christianity and Paganism. However, I personally feel that Beowulf and his author were both Christian, but both cultures could can be found though out the poem.
             The first Pagan element in Beowulf is evident in the characters superhuman personifications. Beowulf took it upon himself to save the Danes from Grendal. He chose not to use weapons in the fight against Grendel, he relied solely on his super strength. This same super strength also played a role for Beowulf in the fight against Grendel's mother. Beowulf swam downward for entire day without the use of oxygen. This superhero strength continued with the battle against the dragon. By the time Beowulf fought the dragon he was an old man. Even though Beowulf was fatally wounded he still managed to deliver the final blow that killed the dragon.
             Beowulf wasn't the only character that held super natural powers. For example, Grendal had no knowledge of weapons; therefore he relied on his extraordinary strength to destroy his enemies. The dragon also held a paranormal power. He could spit fire that was so intense that it actually melted Beowulf's shield to his body. These supernatural characteristics and battles between good and evil are example of epic stories during pagan times.
             Another trait that gives the book a non-Christian essence is Beowulf himself. He did many non-Christian things. He drank in excess and killed other people and creatures. Beowulf cared about being remembered and getting treasure more than doing a deed for the charity of it. Beowulf also wished to be cremated; this suggests that he was pagan.
             While many pagan influences appear in the poem, Christian overtones dominate. Beowulf...